Make Most Of Your Vacation With These Things To Do In Baku, Azerbaijan

Baku is the capital city of Azerbaijan. A city that will fascinate you right from the first moment, it is rightfully called the ‘Cosmopolitan Spirit of Azerbaijan.’ There are many places to visit in Baku that will make you fall in love with the place. Buka is famed as a city that easily blends its rich culture and history with its modern side. You will find ultra-modern buildings like the Baku Eye, Heydar Aliyev Centre, the Flame Towers, etc., existing side by side with ancient places like Ateshgah, a castle-like temple complex known as the Fire Temple. This temple is said to be a place of worship for Persians, Hindus, and Zoroastrians. Today, it stands as a museum of these cultural practices. Such juxtaposition between the old and the new makes Baku city’s attractions almost mystical. You can also enjoy the most luxurious pleasures on Nizami Street, known for its exclusive stores, restaurants, etc. Read on to learn more about some must-visit Baku city’s attractions.

Here are some popular things to do in Baku, Azerbaijan

1. Explore the Old City

The Old Town of Baku, also known as the Inner City, Old City and ‘Icherisheher,’ is known as the historical centre of Baku which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of the best places to visit in Baku, Old City, dates back to at least the 12th century. With historical buildings such as the Palace of Shirvanshahs, Baku Fortress Wall, Maiden Tower, the Juma Mosque and more, this place might just be the crown among Baku’s tourist attractions.
Where: Neftchilar Avenue, Baku
When: Open at all hours
Best time to visit: April – October

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2. Visit the National Art Museum of Azerbaijan

For everyone who loves exploring the culture of a place, this is one of the best places to visit in Baku. Founded in 1920, this museum serves as the reservoir of Azerbaijan’s history and culture. You can locate all periods of Azerbaijan’s history recorded in the museum, from prehistoric findings to connections with the Silk Road, to the struggle for independence. A visit to this museum will familiarize you with all of Azerbaijan’s history. It is for this reason this museum is frequently called one of the most exciting places to visit in Baku.
Where: Niyazi 9/11, 1001 Baku, Baku
When: 10 am – 6 am (Tuesday, Thursday – Friday), 12 pm – 9 pm (Wednesday) and 11 am – 7 pm (Saturday – Sunday) (Monday closed)
Entrance fee: AZN 5 (for adults), AZN 1 (for preschool children), AZN 2 (for students) and free entry for disabled people, employees of the museum, military personnel and members of the ICOM (approx.)

3. Marvel at the ancient rock paintings and petroglyphs at the Gobustan National Park

Hands down one of the most surreal of all of Baku’s tourist attractions, these rock paintings and petroglyphs depict the daily life of prehistoric humans. These paintings are said to be at least 40,000 years old, if not more. Exploring these wonders will give you a peek into the most ancient history of mankind. These ancient rock paintings are some of the most famous of all Baku’s tourist attractions. 
Where: Caucasus mountains, Gobustan settlement, Garadagh district, Baku
When: 10 am – 6 pm
Entrance fee: AZN 1 onwards (for residents and citizens) and AZN 2 onwards (for foreign visitors) (approx.)

4. Visit the Bibi-Heybat Mosque

One of Baku’s famous places to visit, Bibi-Hebyat Mosque holds significant religious importance to the locals, as it is believed to stand on the burial place of a descendant of Prophet Muhammad. The original mosque was built in the 13th century and later destroyed in the 1930s under the Soviet regime. After Azerbaijan became independent, the mosque was rebuilt using the remarkable Islamic architectural style. Thanks to the beautiful arches, domes, and minarets, this mosque is now one of Baku’s famous places to visit.
Where: Neftchilar prospekti 163, Baku
When: 9:30 am – 6:30 pm
Entrance fee: N/A

5. Visit the beautiful Little Venice

Located on the scenic Baku Boulevard, Little Venice is a sea park inspired by the canals of Venice in the lanes of Baku. Visit this alluring network of canals, bridges, pavements, etc., to enjoy the breezy charm of Venice in Baku. You can also opt for a gondola ride on the canals for a small fee. The area also has lovely cafes, restaurants and shops to elevate your experience even more. Little Venice is one of the most enjoyable of all Baku’s sightseeing places. 
Where: Baku Boulevard, Neftchilar Avenue, Baku
When: 10 am – 11:30 pm
Entrance fee: AZN 5 onwards (approx.)

6. Visit the Highland Park for stunning views of the city

Speaking of Baku’s sightseeing places, Highland Park is a famous elevated terrace park complex in Baku. This park offers sublime views of city gems like the Flame Towers and the mighty Caspian Sea. The complex is also home to the War Memorial, which houses the Eternal Flame, a dedication to the brave souls who fought for liberation. You can also visit Martyr’s Lane, which features graves and wall slabs that honour all citizens and soldiers who lost their lives, during Black January or the war. The terrace-park complex also offers incredible views of the Old City, Maiden Tower, Palace of Shirvanshahs, etc., 
Where: Khazar district, Baku
When: Open 24/7
Entry fee: Free entry for all

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7. Relax at the charming Bilgah Beach

Take a break from all the sightseeing and relax on the picturesque beach with never-ending views of the Caspian Sea. Relax on the sand under a canopy to enjoy the breeze while sipping on a refreshing drink. The shoreline will make you want to just lay under the sun and relax while doing absolutely nothing except sunbathing and swimming. For adventure lovers, there are also water sports available on the beach.
Where: Bilgah settlement, Baku
When: Open 24/7
Entry fee: N/A